Fabric Design | DIY crafts | Graphic Design | Interior Design

We’re talking about TP Design

We contacted Typhanie months ago and couldn’t wait to post the interview she did with us. For several reasons it kept getting pushed back until today (finally). It couldn’t have happened at a better time, because Typhanie is very inspirational to us. She has the same drive and creativity that got us started in the first place. Her words are motivational also because it shows that creating something out of necessity can lead to several great ideas, and we want to thank her for giving us some of her time. We hope she inspires you too!

What made you decide to start your blog?

I’m a design blog addict. I love reading about what’s going on in the industry and seeing what new designs are out there. A few years back I realized there wasn’t a lot of design blogs talking about small spaces. I’ve lived in a 400sqft apartment before so I know decorating a small space is no picnic. This led me to create Shoebox Decor.

How long have you been decorating and styling homes? What kind of educational background got you to where you are now?

I’ve been decorating homes for about five years now. While attending design school at Rhodec International I did an internship with a local designer and decided right then and there I wanted to work for myself. I think being an Aries also played a big part in that decision. Before design I worked in PR. I thought it would help in my current field but for some strange reason I find it easier to market other people than myself.

Did you ever imagine your designs would end up in HGTV magazine? That had to have been so exciting!

NO!!! I dreamed I would one day but I always thought it would be when I’m 45 and I’ve paid my industry dues. HGTV is a big deal to me. It’s the station I watched while dreaming of becoming a designer. In fact, I watched so much HGTV my hubby got sick of it and forced me to enroll in design school just so I could live the dream instead of watching it. Lol, I think this is a trick question. The truth is I never feel successful and that’s not a bad thing. I always think I can do better or there is something else to accomplish. Don’t get me wrong, I celebrate every goal I reach with a bottle of champagne. But in the large scheme of things, to me feeling successful happens at the end of your career and I’m just getting started.

What’s your favorite design rule that you follow?

“A place for everything so everything can return to its place.”

Can you tell us more about The Teen Project?

I love doing charity projects. It’s one of the most fulfilling aspects of my life. Last February I and several designers helped design a drop in center for teens to find a meal, get some shelter for a few hours, meet with a therapist or find a place to sleep for the night. The center is located in Venice, CA and is run by Lauri Burns. I had the honor of decorating the reception area which is the first thing the teens see when they enter. I wanted to create something that would put them at ease and make them feel welcomed. It was a wonderful project to be a part of and a great way to use my skills to give back to the community.

via Design Milk

Tell us about getting into fabric design, how did that happen? Which are your favorite designs?

Fabric design has become my new passion. I started out just creating a few patterns I wanted to use in my home, and then I got hooked. I love traditional patterns but I wanted to see them have a playful twist. I know not everyone will love the colors I pick for my designs, which is why I made most of my designs customizable. Like Cinderella, I know one size doesn’t fit all. Jessica and Fred are my favorite designs. They are chic and playful. And I love the way they pop.

What advice do you have for designers starting out on their own?

Don’t sweat the small stuff. There is an answer for every question, just Google it… Network, network, network. Yes, you are that good. And finally, family comes first.

Visit Typhanie’s shop to see more cute fabric designs | Follow her on Facebook & Twitter | Check out her Blog. Thanks for the thought provoking answers. We look forward to seeing what other fun designs pop up in your shop. I hope our readers felt inspired to start a job or project that they’ve been waiting to do. Let us know what you have on your to-do lists!